Current data indicate that temporary ventricular support in patients who cannot be weaned from cardiopulmonary bypass is a reasonable and therapeutic treatment to extend life. Ventricular recovery and quality of life are satisfactory in long-term hospital survivors, and noncardiac disability is rare. Although the role of temporary ventricular support for acute myocardial infarction and cardiogenic shock is undefined, the expansion of indications to include these patients is reasonable and future clinical trials are warranted. Additionally, there is sufficient evidence to indicate that temporary mechanical support is useful as a bridge to heart transplantation. The superiority of one support system over another in any given clinical instance can only be settled after the results of continued and carefully controlled clinical experiences have been reported.